News briefs and information from Federal agencies and Capitol Hill on government activities, legislation, and grants of interest to the telemedicine, telehealth, and health IT community. Edited by Carolyn Bloch.

Wednesday, February 1, 2012

Trading & Partnering with Mexico

To increase the trading relationship between the U.S and Mexico especially in health technology, a delegation of U.S. healthcare technology firms are going to Mexico on May 14th and 15th, 2012. The companies are going to obtain first hand information on market opportunities and to develop successful business relationships in health IT.

The U.S Commercial Service Global Healthcare Technologies Team in Mexico have made arrangements for participants to meet with Mexican policy makers and regulators, visit some of Mexico’s top healthcare institutions, and conduct discussions with industry thought-leaders and decision-makers.

Mexico is looking to import all types of medical devices, medical equipment, instruments, and dental products. According to the Commerce Department’s International Trade Association publication “Healthcare Technology Resource Guide” 2011-2012, about 90 percent of medical equipment and instruments and about 20 percent of medical disposable products are imported. Medical products of U.S. origin are appreciated because of their high quality and good price as compared to other similar quality products.

The Resource Guide also reports that most large public and private hospitals try to have modern and very specialized medical devices. Some medium and small private hospitals with limited budgets buy used or refurbished equipment. Public hospitals by law can’t buy used or refurbished products so recently many public and private hospitals are hiring companies that offer “integral surgery services” and provide service per event by offering all the necessary products required to perform a surgery.

Most large international corporations offering medical devices have a presence in Mexico. But medium and small foreign suppliers usually sell through legally appointed distributors.

Applications for the mission are ongoing until March 9, 2012. Applications received after that date will be considered only if space is available. The participation fee for the mission for small and medium sized firms is $775 and for large firms $805.

Key research reports:

Federal Agencies - Revised for 2012: More than 25 government agencies provide grants and contracting opportunities in telemedicine, telehealth, and health IT. What programs are getting funded? Find out in this new 260-page report. Learn more.

Includes FREE bonus report: How to Sell to HHS: This beginner's guide will help you navigate the complex federal marketplace, find agency contacts, and write a winning proposal. Learn more.